The MotoGP world is buzzing with a potential debut that could shake things up: Ducati is seriously considering giving Nicolo Bulega, their World Superbike Championship contender, a shot at MotoGP glory, potentially filling in for the injured Marc Marquez at the upcoming Portuguese Grand Prix! But here's where it gets interesting...
Marc Marquez's return to the track at Portimao in three weeks is looking increasingly unlikely due to the shoulder injury he sustained at the Indonesian Grand Prix. This unfortunate situation has opened a door of opportunity for Nicolo Bulega, who currently rides for Ducati in the World Superbike Championship (WSBK).
Bulega inked a two-season deal with Ducati earlier this year, taking on roles as both a WSBK rider and a MotoGP tester. This dual role is strategic, as Bulega's experience with Pirelli tires will be invaluable when Pirelli becomes the sole tire supplier for MotoGP in 2027. Think of it as Ducati getting ahead of the game, grooming a rider familiar with the rubber that will soon dominate the premier class.
The Superbike season wraps up this weekend in Jerez, Spain. While Bulega is in the thick of a heated title battle with Toprak Razgatlioglu (who is heavily favored to win), his schedule clears up considerably in November. This timing is crucial. And this is the part most people miss: It perfectly aligns with Marquez's uncertain recovery and the Portuguese Grand Prix.
Adding fuel to the fire, MotoGP doctor Angel Charte has publicly stated that Marquez's return to Portimao is "very difficult." This statement significantly increases the likelihood of Ducati needing a replacement rider. Davide Tardozzi, Ducati's team manager, further confirmed the uncertainty surrounding Marquez's return in an interview with DAZN, stating that the nine-time world champion will "almost certainly not be at Portimao." Tardozzi expressed hope that Marquez could participate in the final race of the year in Valencia but emphasized that a medical check-up is necessary to determine his fitness. "If he ultimately can't be there, that's fine," Tardozzi added, suggesting Ducati is preparing for the possibility of Marquez remaining sidelined until the Sepang test in February 2026.
This approach seems to indicate that Ducati is prioritizing Marquez's long-term health and recovery, even if it means missing a few races. But here's where it gets controversial: Some might argue that Ducati should be doing everything possible to get Marquez back on the bike as soon as possible, given his immense talent and potential to win races. Others might praise Ducati for taking a cautious and responsible approach to player safety. What do you think?
Regarding the rumors of Bulega stepping in for Marquez at Portimao, Tardozzi admitted, "It's a possibility." He stressed that Bulega's immediate focus should remain on the SBK world championship fight in Jerez. "After that, we will study the possibility of him making his MotoGP debut at Portimao," Tardozzi stated.
The question on everyone's mind is whether Ducati will arrange a test day for Bulega before his potential MotoGP debut. Tardozzi remained tight-lipped on the matter, stating, "It would be useful, we'll evaluate it after the Jerez weekend." Whether such a test is mandatory remains unclear. Giving Bulega some track time on the MotoGP bike would undoubtedly be beneficial, allowing him to familiarize himself with the machine and the different riding style required.
To recap, Marc Marquez sustained a fracture to his right shoulder in a racing incident at the Indonesian Grand Prix, where he was unfortunately taken out by Aprilia's Marco Bezzecchi on the opening lap. He underwent surgery in Spain and has already been ruled out of the Australia-Malaysia double-header. Ducati's test rider, Michele Pirro, is confirmed to ride in the Australian Grand Prix this weekend and is expected to also fill in at the Malaysian Grand Prix.
So, the stage is set: A rising star in Nicolo Bulega potentially getting his big break, a MotoGP legend in Marc Marquez battling injury, and a team in Ducati navigating a complex situation. What do you think Ducati should do? Should they prioritize getting Marquez back on the bike as soon as possible, even if it means potentially rushing his recovery? Or is giving Bulega a chance the right move, providing him with invaluable experience and potentially uncovering a future MotoGP star? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
